Best Stock Trading Apps UK of 2025

Quick answer: What’s the best stock trading app in the UK?

We recommend eToro as the best overall stock trading app in the UK. It’s beginner-friendly, offers zero-commission stock trading, and includes powerful social trading features like CopyTrader, making it ideal for both new and passive investors.

Finding the right stock trading app in the UK depends on what you need as an investor. Some apps offer low fees and easy access to global markets.

Others focus on tools for analysis, social trading, or fast order execution. In this guide, we’ve reviewed the top stock trading platforms in the UK based on fees, features, regulation, and user experience.

Quick summary: Top 7 stock trading apps in the UK

App	Best For	Min Deposit	Commission	ISA/SIPP Support	Standout Feature
eToro	Beginners, social trading	$50	£0	ISA only	Copy trading, community features
Saxo	Global investing, pros	£0	From £3	Yes	50+ exchanges, deep analytics
IG	Day traders, active investors	£0	£0–£10	Yes	Advanced tools, IG Academy
XTB	Low-cost trading	£0	£0	No	Earns interest on uninvested cash
Trading 212	Entry-level investors	£1	£0	ISA only	Fractional shares, clean mobile interface
Interactive Brokers	Value + functionality	£0	£3	Yes	Advanced platform, low commissions
Plus500	CFD traders	£0	£0	No	Straightforward interface, built-in risk controls
SpreadEX	UK-focused spread betting	£0	£0	No	Tax-free spread betting, good platform tools
Pepperstone	Forex & speed	£0	Low spreads	No	MT4/MT5 access, lightning-fast execution

Best trading apps UK reviewed

IG – Best all-round trading platform

IG is our top-rated trading app in the UK due to its wide market access, high-end tools, and strong regulatory reputation. The platform supports over 17,000 markets including UK and US stocks, indices, forex, and commodities.

Key features

• Access to global shares, indices, and FX markets
• Advanced trading with MT4 and ProRealTime
• Direct market access (DMA) for professionals
• Customizable charting and technical analysis
• Detailed market news and trading signals

Pros

• Broadest asset selection among UK brokers
• Strong educational content for all skill levels
• FCA-regulated and publicly listed parent company
• One of the few platforms offering full-featured DMA

Cons

• Platform complexity may deter beginners
• Some account features require higher balances
• Higher costs on premium services

Expert insight

IG is the go-to choice for traders who want depth. It’s built for users who demand quality charting, execution speed, and a reliable infrastructure. We found it especially strong for active traders needing full visibility and control across multiple markets.

SpreadEX – Best for intermediate traders and spread betting

SpreadEX is a unique UK platform offering spread betting, CFDs, and fixed-odds trading. It’s tailored for traders who want flexibility and tax advantages in the UK, with strong tools and competitive spreads.

Key features

• Spread betting and CFD trading across asset classes
• Advanced charting with technical analysis tools
• FCA-regulated and UK-based support
• No commissions on spread bets

Pros

• Tax-free trading on spread bets in the UK
• Strong risk controls like stop-loss orders
• User-friendly interface with out-of-hours trading
• Good for short-term or leveraged strategies

Cons

• Only supports leveraged trading; no traditional investments
• Inactivity fees apply after long periods
• Limited availability outside the UK and Ireland

Expert insight

SpreadEX is ideal for experienced traders who know how to manage risk. Its platform blends simplicity with advanced features, and the tax-efficient model is a major plus for UK residents. It’s not suitable for passive investors, but it’s excellent for tactical traders.

eToro – Best for beginners and social trading

eToro’s standout feature is copy trading, allowing users to mirror the strategies of top investors. With zero-commission stock trading and a user-friendly layout, it’s especially good for beginners or those looking to invest with minimal hands-on research.

Key features

• CopyTrader and Smart Portfolios
• 0% commission on UK and US stocks
• Built-in crypto, stock, and ETF trading
• Social feeds and community tools

Pros

• Ideal for learning through social interaction
• Huge variety of assets, including cryptocurrencies
• Beginner-friendly layout and mobile app
• Low barrier to entry for new investors

Cons

• High spreads on some instruments
• Flat withdrawal fee
• Limited research tools for advanced traders
• No direct access to exchanges

Expert insight

eToro’s social features provide an easy way to explore trading strategies without deep technical skills. We recommend it for passive investors or first-time users who want access to stocks, ETFs, and crypto in one platform with simple execution.

XTB – Best for low-cost trading and education

XTB balances affordable pricing with strong educational resources. Its proprietary xStation 5 platform is fast and intuitive, making it a great fit for newer traders and cost-conscious users.

Key features

• 0% commission on stocks and ETFs (conditions apply)
• Access to forex, indices, commodities, and shares
• Interactive courses, live webinars, and tutorials
• Regulated by the FCA with good customer support

Pros

• Transparent pricing with low trading costs
• Excellent training materials for beginners
• Clean and fast user interface
• Real-time market sentiment tools

Cons

• Limited product range outside core asset classes
• No MetaTrader 4 or 5 integration
• Weekend customer service is limited

Expert insight

XTB is perfect for users who want to learn while trading. We found its educational hub one of the best in the industry. It’s a great all-in-one platform for those who want low-cost access to major markets without complex features.

Saxo – Best for global investing and research

Saxo is ideal for serious investors who want international market access and in-depth research. It supports over 40,000 instruments across 36 global exchanges.

Key features

• Institutional-level charting and analysis tools
• SaxoTraderGO and SaxoInvestor platforms
• Broad access to equities, bonds, ETFs, and FX
• Premium research and stock screeners

Pros

• One of the most diverse product selections globally
• Strong portfolio tracking and risk analysis
• High-quality research reports
• Secure and regulated platform

Cons

• Higher trading costs for small accounts
• Interface can be complex for new users
• Designed with experienced investors in mind

Expert insight

Saxo is built for active investors who want access to everything. Our team rated its research suite highly, and its custom tools make it a top choice for building a global portfolio. It’s not for casual traders but rewards serious investors.

Plus500 – Best for CFD traders who value simplicity

Plus500 offers a clear and simple trading experience, focused on CFDs. Its intuitive design is ideal for users who want quick access to markets without complex tools.

Key features

• Over 2,800 CFDs across markets
• Risk management tools (e.g., stop-loss, price alerts)
• Commission-free trading model
• Web and mobile platforms with real-time data

Pros

• Very user-friendly for new traders
• No commissions, only spreads
• Quick trade execution
• Good range of CFDs across stocks, forex, crypto

Cons

• No support for MetaTrader or other platforms
• Basic technical tools
• CFD-only model may not suit all investors

Expert insight

Plus500 is for traders who want an efficient way to trade CFDs with minimal learning curve. It’s ideal for short-term strategies and basic portfolio diversification. Those seeking more tools or long-term investing options may find it limiting.

Pepperstone – Best for forex and high-speed execution

Pepperstone is best known for its execution speed, low spreads, and forex expertise. It’s a strong choice for active traders using third-party platforms like MT4 or cTrader.

Key features

• Spreads as low as 0.0 pips with Razor accounts
• Supports MT4, MT5, and cTrader
• Regulated in multiple top-tier jurisdictions
• Good educational content and customer service

Pros

• Great for forex and CFD scalping
• High-speed trade execution
• Wide platform choice with integrations
• Tight spreads with transparent pricing

Cons

• No access to direct share trading
• Limited product diversity outside FX and CFDs
• Spread widening during volatile periods

Expert insight

Pepperstone is built for traders who care about price and speed. We recommend it for forex traders, scalpers, and algorithmic strategies. While it lacks traditional share investing, its pricing and execution make it a top-tier option for market veterans.

How to choose the right stock trading app in the UK

Choosing a stock trading app isn’t just about downloading the most popular option.

It’s about finding a platform that matches how you trade, what you trade, and how much risk you’re comfortable with.

Here’s what to look for before you commit.

1. Know your trading strategy

Are you investing for the long term or making short-term trades? The answer should guide your choice.

• Long-term investors might prefer platforms like Saxo, which offer deep market access and advanced tools.
• New traders often do better with apps like XTB, which combine a clean interface with strong educational support.
• Not sure where to start? Try eToro. Its copy trading feature lets you follow top investors while building your confidence.

2. Look beyond the design—education matters

A good app should be easy to use, but also offer the right tools to help you trade smarter.

• IG stands out here, offering free trading courses through IG Academy.
• For technical traders, many platforms offer advanced charting tools and real-time market data to support smarter decisions.

Don’t just look for style—make sure the substance is there too.

3. Compare costs, not just commissions

Low fees are important, but they’re only one part of the equation.

• eToro and Plus500 are known for transparent, commission-free stock trading.
• Saxo charges more, but backs it up with professional tools and research access.

Always weigh cost against value. Cheaper isn’t always better if the features you need aren’t there.

4. Strong customer support is non-negotiable

When something goes wrong, support matters.

• Pepperstone is well-rated for its responsive team and multi-channel support.
• Don’t rely on hours alone—look for reviews that speak to how helpful the support really is.

Quick answers and helpful service can make or break your trading experience.

Bottom line

The right stock trading app fits your style, budget, and goals. Try a few demo accounts, read expert reviews, and focus on the features you actually need. Comfort, speed, and value all matter—so pick what works for you.

What is leverage in trading?

Leverage lets you control a larger position in the market using borrowed funds from your broker. It can increase your profits—but also your losses—so it’s important to use it carefully.

Example: With 10:1 leverage, a £1,000 deposit gives you control over a £10,000 trade.

UK & EU leverage limits (ESMA rules)

For retail traders using FCA-regulated platforms, ESMA sets strict leverage limits:

Asset Class	Max Leverage
Major Forex Pairs	30:1
Minor/Exotic Forex, Gold, Major Indices	20:1
Other Commodities, Minor Indices	10:1
Stocks & ETFs	5:1
Cryptocurrencies	2:1

Professional traders may qualify for higher leverage, but they waive some regulatory protections.

⚠️ Unregulated offshore brokers may offer higher leverage, but they lack FCA protection. Proceed with caution.

Can UK apps access international markets?

Yes, and they should. Global access means better diversification and broader investment opportunities.

Top platforms for global access

• eToro offers international stocks, ETFs, and crypto, all in one app.
• Saxo provides access to over 35,000 assets from the US, Europe, Asia, and more.
• IG also covers major global markets and emerging regions.

Just remember—global investing often involves currency conversion. Apps like XTB offer competitive rates, but always check the fine print on FX fees.

Why global access matters

Spreading your investments across countries helps protect your portfolio from local market downturns. Whether you want to buy US tech stocks or Asian ETFs, the right app should give you that flexibility—without hidden fees or restrictions.

How is trading taxed and regulated in the UK?

Key taxes

• Capital Gains Tax (CGT): Charged on profits above your annual allowance when selling shares.
• Dividend Tax: Applies to dividends over your annual dividend allowance. Rates depend on your income band.

Keep clear records of gains and losses. Losses can reduce your overall CGT bill.

Who regulates UK trading apps?

• The FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) regulates UK brokers, ensuring fair practices and customer protection.
• HMRC oversees taxation. If you earn taxable gains or dividends, you must report them via Self Assessment.

Stick with FCA-regulated platforms to ensure you’re protected and compliant.

What fees should you expect?

Even small fees can eat into your returns—especially if you trade often. Here’s what to look out for:

Fee Type	Description	Common Apps	How to Reduce It
Commission Fees	Charged per trade	Saxo, IG	Choose commission-free apps like eToro
Spreads	Difference between buy/sell price	Pepperstone, CMC	Use limit orders and trade when markets are stable
Overnight Fees	For holding leveraged positions overnight	Plus500, Pepperstone	Close trades daily if possible
Inactivity Fees	Charged after periods of no trading	IG, Saxo	Stay active or choose apps with no inactivity fee
Withdrawal Fees	Flat fee for transferring funds out	eToro (£5), Saxo	Use fee-free withdrawal methods
FX Conversion Fees	Applies when trading foreign assets	IG, Interactive Brokers	Stick to assets in your base currency
Market Data Fees	For real-time quotes	Saxo, IBKR	Some brokers offer free real-time data

Use demo accounts and fee calculators to test how costs might impact your real returns.

What account types do UK trading apps offer?

Modern platforms offer more than just a standard trading account. Here’s a breakdown:

Demo accounts

• Try platforms risk-free using virtual funds.
• Great for learning and testing strategies.
• Offered by eToro, Plus500, and IG.

Standard and professional accounts

• Standard accounts give access to core features.
• Professional accounts offer higher leverage but require experience and income verification.

Margin and retirement accounts

• Margin accounts let you borrow to increase trade size. Use caution—losses can grow fast.
• SIPP accounts (Self-Invested Personal Pension) allow tax-efficient investing for retirement. Available on select platforms.

Choose the account that fits your trading style and long-term goals.

Are trading apps in the UK safe?

If you’re using an FCA-regulated app, you’re in good hands.

Top-tier platforms use:

• Data encryption
• Two-factor authentication (2FA)
• Account monitoring for suspicious activity

Stick with platforms that clearly state their regulatory status and offer strong data protection. Avoid offshore apps that aren’t subject to UK oversight.

Best stock trading apps by investor type

Not every app suits every trader. Here’s a breakdown of the best platforms based on different investor goals and experience levels.

First-time investors

Best apps: Trading 212, eToro
Low minimum deposits, commission-free trades, and simple interfaces make these apps ideal for beginners. You can invest small amounts without dealing with complex tools or fee traps.

Passive investors

Best apps: eToro, Freetrade
These platforms offer access to ETFs and dividend stocks, with commission-free investing and ISA eligibility for tax efficiency. Both are well-suited for hands-off, long-term strategies.

Active day traders

Best apps: IG, Saxo
IG and Saxo offer advanced charting, real-time pricing, and fast execution—must-haves for active trading. SaxoTraderGO even supports DMA (Direct Market Access) and professional-level analytics.

Income-focused (dividend) investors

Best apps: Interactive Brokers, Saxo
Both platforms offer a wide selection of dividend-paying stocks and support for reinvesting payouts. They also offer ISA and SIPP accounts for maximum tax efficiency.

High net worth and portfolio builders

Best apps: Saxo, Interactive Investor
For investors managing larger portfolios, Saxo and Interactive Investor offer access to bonds, trusts, and global assets with account features tailored to wealth management.

Which trading apps support dividend reinvestment?

If you’re investing for passive income, check whether the platform allows you to reinvest dividends (DRIPs) or only pays them in cash.

Platform	Dividend Reinvestment (DRIP)	Notes
eToro	❌ No	Dividends paid in cash
IG	✅ Yes	Supports DRIPs on eligible UK stocks
Interactive Brokers	✅ Yes	Offers auto-reinvestment globally
Saxo	❌ No	Dividends credited to cash balance
Trading 212	✅ Yes	Reinvestment available via fractional shares
XTB	❌ No	Dividends paid to account balance

For long-term compounding, a DRIP-friendly app like Interactive Brokers or Trading 212 may offer better returns over time.

Mobile trading app comparison: usability and features

Most UK investors trade on mobile, so how the app feels in your hand matters. Here’s how the top platforms compare on mobile experience:

App	Mobile Usability Summary
eToro	Beginner-friendly layout, clean navigation, lacks advanced charting
SaxoTraderGO	Powerful and detailed, best for experienced traders
Trading 212	Very easy to use, ideal for first-timers
IG	Advanced features, price alerts, real-time news from Reuters
XTB (xStation 5)	Fast and responsive, with customisable watchlists and learning tools
Interactive Brokers (IBKR)	Deep functionality, but less intuitive for new users

If you value simplicity, stick with eToro or Trading 212. If you want full control and analysis, Saxo or IG is a better fit.

Which apps support fractional shares?

Fractional shares let you invest in companies like Amazon or Tesla without buying a full share. This feature is perfect for building a diversified portfolio with limited capital.

Platform	Fractional Share Support	Notes
Trading 212	✅ Yes	Buy fractions of UK, US, and EU stocks
eToro	✅ Yes	Supports fractional investing globally
Interactive Brokers	✅ Yes	Fractions available across many assets
IG	❌ No	Full shares only
XTB	❌ No	No fractional support
Saxo	❌ No	Requires full share purchases

Fractional investing is a must-have for newer investors or anyone looking to invest smaller amounts more flexibly.

Which apps pay interest on uninvested cash?

If you’re not trading daily, some apps now reward you by paying interest on your idle cash. This passive return adds up, especially during periods of market uncertainty.

Platform	Interest on Cash	Notes
XTB	✅ Yes	Earn interest on uninvested GBP balances
Trading 212	✅ Yes	Tiered interest depending on cash held
eToro	❌ No	No interest on cash holdings
Saxo	❌ No	Cash earns 0% unless held in money markets
Interactive Brokers	✅ Yes	Competitive interest rates, multi-currency

If you hold cash for tactical reasons or just prefer lower trading frequency, this feature is worth considering.

Tax efficiency tips for UK investors

Smart investing isn’t just about returns—it’s also about keeping more of what you earn. These tax tips can help:

• Use your annual ISA allowance (£20,000 in 2025) for tax-free growth and dividends.
• Consider a SIPP for long-term retirement investing. Contributions get tax relief and grow tax-free.
• Offset capital losses against gains to reduce your CGT bill. Keep records of all trades.
• Watch for dividend tax if you’re outside an ISA or SIPP. The 2025 allowance is just £1,000.
• Avoid non-FCA platforms that don’t offer FSCS protection. You may lose your money without recourse.

For maximum efficiency, platforms like Interactive Brokers, IG, and Saxo all offer ISA and SIPP options with broad investment access.

Common trading app mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Even with the best platform, users often trip up on avoidable mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

• Ignoring FX fees – Trading in foreign stocks? Always check the platform’s currency conversion charges.
• Using the wrong account type – ISAs and SIPPs offer tax perks that standard accounts don’t.
• Overtrading – Many apps feel like games. Don’t let notifications push you into needless trades.
• Not reading the fee schedule – Zero commissions often hide wider spreads or withdrawal charges.
• Neglecting security – Always enable 2FA and never share account credentials.
• Letting your account go inactive – You may be charged monthly fees. Log in occasionally or check the terms.

Staying informed and cautious is the best way to protect your portfolio—and your peace of mind.

How we test stock trading apps

We reviewed each app based on five key areas:

Category	What We Checked	Standouts
Platform performance	Speed, reliability, device support	IG, eToro
Demo experience	Realism, ease of use, features	IG, Plus500
Tools & research	Charting, news, alerts	IG, Saxo
Security	Regulation, 2FA, encryption	Pepperstone, Plus500
Fees & speed	Commissions, spreads, execution	Pepperstone, eToro

IG and eToro stood out for smooth multi-device trading. Pepperstone delivered low spreads and strong risk tools.

Final thoughts: The best UK trading apps for 2025

• eToro – Best for beginners and social trading
• IG – Best all-round app for serious traders
• SpreadEX – Best for active UK spread bettors
• XTB – Great for low-cost trading and learning
• Saxo – Top-tier access to global markets
• Pepperstone – Ideal for forex and high-speed trading
• Plus500 – Simple CFD platform for quick trading

Your next step? Try a demo, check for FCA regulation, and make sure the platform matches your trading goals. The best app isn’t always the cheapest—it’s the one that helps you trade with confidence.

FAQs

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Sources

UK Government & Regulator Links:

• https://www.gov.uk/individual-savings-accounts
• https://www.gov.uk/tax-on-dividends
• https://www.gov.uk/capital-gains-tax/rates
• https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/financial-conduct-authority
• https://www.gov.uk/find-licences/registration-with-the-financial-conduct-authority
• https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/spring-budget-2024-overview-of-tax-legislation-and-rates-ootlar/annex-a-rates-and-allowances

Financial Protection & Regulation:

• https://www.fscs.org.uk/what-we-cover/investments/
• https://www.esma.europa.eu/investor-corner

Trusted UK Financial Guidance:

• https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk
• https://www.which.co.uk/money/investing
• https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/scams/investment-scams/

Educational & Academic Sources:

• https://www.open.edu/openlearn/money-business/personal-finance
• https://www.hist.cam.ac.uk/centre-financial-history
• https://www.cfainstitute.org/en/research/investor-tools
• https://committees.parliament.uk/work/1449/fintech-in-the-uks-financial-services/